I nodded absently. The brunette, taking out a frosted bottle with a yellowish liquid from her waistcoat pocket, approached and, taking her chin, brought it to my nose.

- Breathe in, quickly! Don't move, it's not coke, it's just poppers. Like this. Now, at least, you will not measure in the process.

We were interrupted by a knock on the door. Val let go of my face and went to open it. I winced. The incomprehensible substance smelled of neroli with ylang-ylang, the sharp notes dissipated, and I listened to my feelings. Nothing, though panic seemed to have been replaced by amazement.

- Oh, your outfit for tonight has arrived....